Lincoln Key Fob Programming
Lincoln uses Ford's procedures, which makes it one of the easiest luxury makes to do yourself. 86 of the 87 Lincoln model years can be programmed at home. Adding a key takes two that already start the engine, and the remote relearn resets every remote at once. Push-button models like the MKS, MKT and MKZ have their own smart key sequences, with 30 seconds to finish. Only the 2020 Continental needs a pro. Fobs take a CR2032 or CR2025.
Choose your Lincoln model for programming steps, the battery it uses, and the correct replacement fob with FCC ID and part number — 87 model years across 13 models.
- Aviator 2003–2005
- Blackwood 2002
- Continental 2020
- LS 2000–2006
- Mark LT 2006–2008
- MKC 2014–2016
- MKS 2013–2016
- MKT 2011–2019
- MKX 2007–2019
- MKZ 2007–2016
- Navigator 1998–2017
- Town Car 1998–2011
- Zephyr 2006
A brass dot marks models with verified replacement-fob data (FCC ID + part number).
Can you program a Lincoln key fob yourself?
On 86 of the 87 model years we cover (99%). The rest need a locksmith or dealer. Lincoln uses 7 different onboard procedures:
- Ford Add a Key With Two Working Keys
57 model years · Aviator (2003–2005); Blackwood (2002); LS (2000–2006); Mark LT (2006–2008); MKT (2011–2012); MKX (2007–2011); MKZ (2007–2009, 2012); Navigator (1998–2014); Town Car (1998–2011); Zephyr (2006)
- Ford Remote Programming: Reset and Relearn Every Remote
49 model years · Aviator (2003–2005); Blackwood (2002); LS (2003–2006); Mark LT (2006–2008); MKX (2007–2011); MKZ (2007–2009); Navigator (1998–2012); Town Car (1998–2011); Zephyr (2006)
- Ford Proximity Keys: No Separate Remote to Program
14 model years · MKS (2013–2016); MKT (2013–2019); Navigator (2015–2017)
- Ford Smart Key Programming: Lock and Unlock Button Sequence
14 model years · MKS (2013–2016); MKT (2013–2019); Navigator (2015–2017)
- Ford Smart Key Programming: Backup Slot Sequence
11 model years · MKC (2014–2016); MKX (2016–2019); MKZ (2013–2016)
- Ford Remote Programming: Two Relearn Methods
4 model years · MKX (2012–2015)
- Ford Add a Key by Ignition Type
4 model years · MKX (2012–2015)
Locksmith or dealer only: Continental (2020).
What battery does a Lincoln key fob take?
Mostly the CR2032, which covers 54 of 87 model years. Lincoln also uses the CR2025 and CR2450, so check your model and year before you buy.
| Battery | Model years | Models |
|---|---|---|
| CR2032 battery on Amazon | 54 | Aviator (2003–2005); Blackwood (2002); LS (2000–2006); Mark LT (2006–2008); MKT (2011–2012); MKX (2007–2010); MKZ (2007–2009, 2012); Navigator (1998–2012); Town Car (1998–2011); Zephyr (2006) |
| CR2025 battery on Amazon | 32 | MKC (2014–2016); MKS (2013–2016); MKT (2013–2019); MKX (2011–2019); MKZ (2013–2016); Navigator (2013–2017) |
| CR2450 battery on Amazon | 1 | Continental (2020) |
Lincoln key types
The replacement keys we've matched to Lincoln models fall into 4 types. A model year can take more than one, which is why the model pages list each option with its FCC ID.
- Remote 1998–2017
- A separate key fob that only handles locking and unlocking.
- Transponder Key 1998–2020
- A cut metal key with a chip in the head. No buttons.
- Remote Head Key 2003–2017
- One piece: a cut metal blade with the lock/unlock buttons built into the head.
- Proximity Key 2011–2020
- Stays in your pocket — the car unlocks and starts without inserting a key.
What Lincoln key programming costs
US price ranges for the key types above, with a working key on hand. Losing every key costs more, $200–$500 at a locksmith for a basic fob or transponder key.
| Key | Locksmith | Dealer |
|---|---|---|
| Basic remote, working key on hand | $50–$150 | $100–$250 |
| Transponder or remote-head key | $75–$200 | $150–$350 |
| Smart / push-to-start key | $150–$400 | $250–$600 |
Full breakdown and sources: key fob programming cost .
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